Super Street Network

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell - AMG goes AC/DC

No, not the Aussie rock band, but proper electricity. This is the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell, with not a gas tank to be found anywhere. Instead, it uses lithium polymer batteries to charge four electric motors, one for each wheel. These motors can spin up to 12,000 rpm, have a combined horsepower output of 643 and deploy prodigious torque: 649 lb-ft. Calculated guesstimates of a zero to 60 mph time stand at four seconds on the nose. Talking of noses, the usual SLS double wishbone front suspension had to be ditched to make room for the drivetrain parts. A multi-link/pushrod damper setup is used in its stead. A production model is anticipated in 2013, but if the Audi E-Tron does well, Mercedes-Benz might want to step it up a bit.